Simon Wilmshöfer’s research while affiliated with University of Cologne and other places

The vast majority—70%—of the Indian population lives in rural areas. They are far removed from India’s image as a society with an emerging middle class and well-regarded schools. This research focuses on education and opportunities for skill development for this rural population. The researchers investigated the area around the Chilika Lagoon, a rural region in the eastern state of Orissa, by interviewing fishing families about formal and nonformal education and informal learning activities, and by tracking their children’s daily activities to determine educational levels, learning activities, and the demand for education and training. By interviewing students and educational experts from Indian Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), the researchers also investigated the accessibility and performance of self-help groups and of computer courses and other training programs for fishermen.